Deutsche Bahn

Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s leading railway company and one of Europe’s largest mobility and logistics providers. Headquartered in Berlin, the company operates an extensive passenger and freight rail network across Germany and Europe. In recent years, Deutsche Bahn has undergone significant restructuring to sharpen its focus on core rail operations, highlighted by the 2025 sale of its logistics subsidiary, DB Schenker, to DSV—a move that marked the largest transaction in the company’s history and contributed to a substantial reduction in debt.

DB is actively investing in digitalization and automation to modernize rail transport. Notably, the company, in collaboration with Bosch subsidiaries, has developed a fully automated shunting locomotive aimed at increasing efficiency in freight operations, with plans for nationwide deployment. Despite ongoing challenges related to infrastructure quality, especially in long-distance services, DB has made notable financial improvements, reducing its losses by approximately EUR 1.8 billion in 2024 and returning its regional service segment to profitability. The company’s restructuring program has also led to a significant reduction in administrative staff.

Deutsche Bahn positions itself as a key player in advancing sustainable mobility, emphasizing rail’s role in climate protection, economic growth, and European connectivity. The company continues to prioritize digital innovations, such as radio-controlled train operations and digital signal boxes, to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.

Keywords: Deutsche Bahn, rail transport, Germany, restructuring, digitalization, automation, sustainability, DB Schenker sale, freight, passenger services, infrastructure, innovation, climate, Europe, mobility, logistics